Kimberly Ruiz knelt in front of rows of vintage bikes Sunday afternoon, ogling and snapping photos with the camera slung around her neck.
Ruiz attended the Colorado Custom and Vintage Bicycle Expo at Jefferson County Fairgrounds because of her love of bikes and desire to better document their history.
Ruiz, 23, said she’s been biking since she was 10 and has never thought of getting another form of transportation.
“I really like bikes, in general, but there’s not enough information out there about their past,” she said. “I’m documenting these vintage bikes for my own purposes.”
Colorado bicycle collectors came Sunday bearing their vintage best and entered their bikes in contests based on year and type of cycle.
“Don’t expect valuable prizes. But do expect fun,” show organizers said.
The expo is in its second year, said co-organizer Mike Kone, who also runs Boulder Bicycle.
In addition to the vintage bike display, the expo boasts the “best custom bicycle builders in the region” and a swap meet for riders to buy and sell bike parts, Kone said.
“The reason why we do this is because it’s a fun way to get people together before cycling season starts,” he said.
Kone was pleased with the turnout this year.
Paul McCarthy of Nederland slowly made the rounds, inspecting bikes new and old.
“Some of the builders here I’ve wanted to meet for a while,” he said. “I’m a bike snob. I like riding custom.”
Jenny Snell of Wheat Ridge said she has been cycling “forever” and loves looking at the custom-made bikes. “It’s amazing to see all the things that can happen when bikes are homemade,” she said. “Plus, it’s fun seeing local celebrities.”
Elizabeth Hernandez: 303-954-1223, ehernandez@denverpost.com or
